Anything But Ordinary

Good Morning! I’m taking a quick break from unpacking to get back into my regular posting schedule. Vacation was so awesome, but there’s just something about the comforts of home — especially once the annoying unpacking is done!

As I was putting away some toiletries this morning I realized that I haven’t given you guys a summer beauty update yet this season. I try to switch up my routine 3-4 times a year to account for changes in weather and lifestyle. Coincidentally, most skincare products only last me 3 months at most, so the timing of this beauty switcheroo is also ideal for replacing or replenishing empties! This season, I finally had an opportunity to try out a newer brand called THE ORDINARY.

It a beauty/skincare brand focused on innovative technology and clinical formulations. Sound complicated? That’s because it kind of is. The product team behind THE ORDINARY is specialized in materials chemistry and biochemistry — not marketing, or the beauty-fluff we are used to. This line of skincare is ultimately all about the product and more importantly, the results.

Perhaps what’s most unique and unusual, is the brands affordability. You could literally buy the entire line of THE ORDINARY products for under $120 — combined. This blows my mind!

Now, the hard part: which products to pick.

Given the scientific labeling and clinical formulations of the products, it takes a bit of time and online research to figure out which formulas and regimens will work best for your skin type and condition. You can find a full guide HERE, which I found super helpful. Personally, I was searching out products to prevent and combat the signs of aging.

This is referred to as a “multi-technology peptide serum” which in laymen’s terms means it targets multiple signs of aging at once. Hey, I’ll take all the help I can get. I apply this serum on a clean face morning and night.

The idea behind this serum is that Hyaluronic Acid attracts 10x its weight in moisture. Water molecules stick to HA, plumping up your skin and giving you a more youthful appearance. Vitamin B5 also enhances surface hydration. I apply this product after “Buffet” and before any moisturizers each morning.

The ingredients in this moisturizer keep the outer layers of the skin hydrated and well protected from the elements. It’s non-greasy and absorbs quickly into the skin. I use this product each morning after the “Buffet” and “Hyaluronic Acid + B5” serum applications.

For years now, scientists and skin care experts have been touting retinoids as your skin’s best defense against aging. Coincidentally, retinoids also help keep skin blemish free. Bonus! I use this serum at night after “Buffet” and before applying any oils or moisturizers.

This light oil is easily absorbed into my skin and surprisingly isn’t very greasy at all. Rose hip seed oil has been proven to have anti-aging benefits and is soothing to the skin. Whatever excess I have on my hands after nightly application, I simply rub into my cuticles.

I’ve been using this regimen now for close to a month and absolutely LOVE it. I’ve had zero break outs, zero flakes and no irritation. One thing to be aware of: as none of THE ORDINARY products offer any sun protection and retinoids make you more sensitive to sun, I’ve also added additional SPF to my daily regimen via SUPERGOOP! DEFENSE REFRESH SPF 50 SPRAY. I layer this on bare skin during the week or on top of my IT COSMETICS SPF 50 CC CREAM when I’m wearing makeup.

THE ORDINARY products can certainly be purchased directly from the BRAND WEBSITE, but I picked up all of mine on ASOS. ASOS runs occasional sales and promotions when these already affordable skincare products can be purchased at a further reduced price! ASOS also offers free shipping and returns which seals the deal for me.

I’ve been using these products for over a month and have been so happy with them. The price is unbelievable and sealed the deal — it’s cheaper than anything you can find in drugstores or Target! Hope you love the line as much as I do. xoxo